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Main Content

Help

general

'your account' help

digital audiobook basics

wma digital audiobook basics

mp3 digital audiobook basics

digital audiobook software

Download OverDrive Media Console - Click to download OverDrive Media Console™
If you have OverDrive Media Console v.2.0 (or newer) installed, you do not need to uninstall it before upgrading to v.3.0. All items in your 'Media Library' will be maintained during this process.

digital audiobook troubleshooting

wma digital audiobook troubleshooting

mp3 digital audiobook troubleshooting

customer care

general

What kinds of materials can I purchase from this website?

We are pleased to offer the following types of materials for purchase and download from this website:

  • WMA Digital Audiobooks in the OverDrive Media Console™ format
  • MP3 Digital Audiobooks in the OverDrive Media Console™ format

To download free software for your preferred format, and to review system requirements and instructions for download, click below:

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What is a 'WMA Digital Audiobook'?

A 'WMA Digital Audiobook' is a digital version of an audiobook that is DRM (Digital Rights Management)-protected and optimized for download.

To read more about WMA Digital Audiobooks, click on the link below:

To review system requirements and instructions for downloading free WMA Digital Audiobook software, click on the link below:

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What is an 'MP3 Digital Audiobook'?

An 'MP3 Digital Audiobook' is a digital version of an audiobook that is compatible with many different portable devices including most cell phones, PDAs, and MP3 players.

To read more about MP3 Digital Audiobooks, click on the link below:

To review system requirements and instructions for downloading free MP3 Digital Audiobook software, click on the link below:

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What software do I need?

In order to purchase and use a specific format of digital material, you must download and install the proper software.

OverDrive Media Console is available for desktop, laptop, and tablet computers with Microsoft Windows operating systems. For more information on this software, click here.

To use OverDrive Media Console, you need to have Windows Media Player 9 Series (or newer) installed on your PC. For more information on Windows Media Player, click here.

To use MP3 Audiobooks with an Apple device, you need to have iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) installed on your PC. For more information on iTunes, click here.

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How do I purchase digital content?

After finding a title to purchase, click on the 'add to cart' link to add the title to your Shopping Cart. After checkout, you will be directed to a download page where you can click on the 'Download' button to download your purchased item to your computer.

If you would prefer to perform your download at a later time, you can return to the site, click 'Sign In Now' to sign in to your account, and click on the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' link to display 'Download' links for your previously purchased materials.

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How do I get to my titles after I've downloaded them?

OverDrive Media Console automatically saves a copy of the audiobook to your computer.  To open a Digital Audiobook, open OverDrive Media Console and select the desired title from the 'Media Library'.

Note that if you've misplaced your copy of a downloaded title, this site maintains a history of purchased digital materials called 'Your Digital Audiobook Library'. Digital materials can be re-downloaded from the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' feature by clicking on the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' link in the 'Your Account' section.

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I cannot find the title I downloaded. Can I download it again?

If you've misplaced your copy of a downloaded title, this site maintains a history of purchased digital materials called 'Your Digital Audiobook Library'. You can re-download from the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' feature by clicking on the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' link in the 'Your Account' section. To reach the 'Your Account' section, click the 'Your Account' link and enter the required login information.

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What happens to the title I downloaded once I've finished with it?

A downloaded title remains on your computer unless you manually delete it. Should you accidentally delete or lose a copy of a downloaded title, this site maintains a history of purchased materials called 'Your Digital Audiobook Library'. To download previously purchased titles, click 'Sign In Now' to sign in to your account, and click on the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' link to display 'Download' links for your previously purchased materials.

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Can I use the materials I purchase from this site on multiple machines?

Digital Audiobooks can be downloaded to multiple computers, transferred to supported portable devices, and burned to CD (when allowed by the publisher).

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What is an enhanced title?

Enhanced titles are accompanied by supplemental material provided by the publisher. Once you have purchased an enhanced title, you will be able to download the title as well as the supplemental material.

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How do I know if a title is enhanced?

Enhanced titles are clearly labeled with the designation '[ENHANCED]'.

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I'm interested in an enhanced title but I really only want one of the files. Do I have to download both?

No. You need only download the file in which you are interested.

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How am I to know the format of the supplemental file that comes with my enhanced title? How will I know what software I need to use it?

The file format of the supplemental file is indicated at the title details page (click the link '[ENHANCED]'). Additionally, the file format is recapped on the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' page. At the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' page, you'll also find a link to the download instructions for the software required to use the supplemental file.

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'your account' help

What is the 'Your Account' section?

The 'Your Account' section is a collection of links you can use to access your account information. When you attempt to access this section of the site, you will be prompted to login using a secure sign in form.

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What is the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' section?

The 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' section lists all of the materials you have purchased. You can re-download materials from the 'Your Digital Audiobook Library' page.

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What is the 'Your Wish List' section?

You can use the 'Your Wish List' section to save a list of titles that you are interested in purchasing, including titles that have not yet been released. You can add a title that has not been released to 'Your Wish List' and Borders will send you an email when the title is available for you to purchase.

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How can I add a title to 'Your Wish List'?

To add a title to 'Your Wish List', click the 'Add to Wish List' link for the title.

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How do I remove a title from 'Your Wish List'?

To remove a title from 'Your Wish List', click 'Sign In Now' to sign in to your account, and click the 'Your Wish List' link on the left navigation menu. Click the 'Remove' link for the title you wish to remove from 'Your Wish List'.

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How do I purchase a title from 'Your Wish List'?

If a title on 'Your Wish List' is available for purchase, click the 'Add to Cart' button. Your 'Digital Audiobooks Shopping Cart' is displayed. Click 'Proceed to Checkout' to purchase the title.

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What is a 'release date'?

A release date is the date on which the publisher releases a title in a given format. You can add a title that has not been released to 'Your Wish List' and Borders will send you an email when the title is available for you to purchase.

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Why can I add some titles to 'Your Wish List' but not to my 'Digital Audiobooks Shopping Cart'?

Titles that have a future release date (the date on which the publisher releases a given title in a given format) may be added to 'Your Wish List' but not to 'Your Digital Audiobooks Shopping Cart'. These titles cannot be purchased until they are released. You can add a title that has not been released to 'Your Wish List' and Borders will send you an email when the title is available for you to purchase.

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A title on 'Your Wish List' has a message stating that 'this title is no longer available for purchase.' Why is the title no longer available?

Titles that have not yet been released are removed from 'Your Wish List' in cases where publishers have delayed or postponed the release of the title, or when the title is otherwise made unavailable by the publisher.

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digital audiobook basics

What is the OverDrive Media Console™?

OverDrive Media Console is a free, fully integrated, and easy-to-use application that handles all aspects of your download audiobook experience.

With an intuitive interface, OverDrive Media Console allows you to download and enjoy WMA and MP3 Digital Audiobooks on most Windows computers. Use OverDrive Media Console to navigate, play, and bookmark Digital Audiobook titles, and to manage and customize your media library. OverDrive Media Console includes a built-in Transfer Wizard that allows you to transfer titles to your supported portable player in just a few clicks. For audiobooks that may be burned to CD, OverDrive Media Console includes a Burn Wizard that allows you to burn to your title to CD without installing any extra software.

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What are the features of OverDrive Media Console?

Features of OverDrive Media Console include:

  • Multi-part download management…

    Digital Audiobook titles are often divided into 'Parts' in order to make downloading quick and easy. OverDrive Media Console allows you the flexibility to specify Parts for download. This enables you to begin using a title as soon as a Part has finished downloading, and return to download the remaining Parts later. Alternatively, if only a given Part of a file is of interest, you can simply download that desired Part.

  • Media library management…

    OverDrive Media Console automatically creates, maintains, and displays a comprehensive library of downloaded media in a logical folder hierarchy. As titles are added to your collection, they are automatically moved into the appropriate folder(s). The organization system is also customizable, allowing you to create and name new folders to suit your needs. Within each folder, titles can be sorted by title, creator, date acquired, and date last played.

  • Navigation of titles with MediaMarkers™…

    Most WMA and MP3 Digital Audiobook titles are divided into Parts, and Parts are then sub-divided into logical sections (such as chapters). The beginning points of these logical sections are MediaMarkers, which are displayed as hyperlinks. When you click on a 'Part', the MediaMarkers associated with that Part are displayed in the right-hand portion of the 'OverDrive Media Explorer' window. Simply click on a MediaMarker to jump directly to, and begin play at, the desired section of a title. OverDrive Media Console also includes the conveniences of skipping back 15 seconds and advancing to the point furthest played.

  • Easy transfer of audiobook files to portable devices for listening on-the-go…

    OverDrive Media Console includes a built-in Transfer Wizard that allows you to transfer titles to supported portable devices in just a few clicks.

  • Easy transfer of audio files (when allowed by the publisher) to CD…

    OverDrive Media Console includes a built-in Burn Wizard that allows you to burn Digital Audiobooks to CD (when allowed by the publisher); everything you need is simply and easily incorporated into OverDrive Media Console.

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What are the accessibility features of OverDrive Media Console?

OverDrive Media Console was designed with accessibility in mind. It has been tested with the most popular screen reader applications and includes hot keys for the most common commands. For a list of hot keys and keyboard shortcuts for use in OverDrive Media Console, click here. For more information about the accessibility features of OverDrive Media Console, click here to read the OverDrive Media Console Accessibility Guide.

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How can I get a copy of OverDrive Media Console?

To review system requirements and download OverDrive Media Console, click here.

Note that upgrading or uninstalling OverDrive Media Console will not affect any content that you have previously downloaded; all items in your 'Media Library' will be maintained through either process.

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Will upgrading or uninstalling OverDrive Media Console cause my previously downloaded content to be deleted?

Upgrading or uninstalling OverDrive Media Console will not affect any content that you have previously downloaded; all items in your 'Media Library' will be maintained through either process.

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How much does OverDrive Media Console cost?

OverDrive Media Console is a free download. To download OverDrive Media Console, click here.

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On what platforms does OverDrive Media Console run?

OverDrive Media Console supports the following platforms:

  • Microsoft Windows Vista (Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, or Ultimate edition)
  • Microsoft Windows XP (Professional, Home, Tablet PC, or Media Center Edition)
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 (Professional or Server®)
  • Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition (ME)
  • Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition (SE)

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What other software do I need in order to use OverDrive Media Console?

To use OverDrive Media Console, you will need to have Windows Media Player 9 Series (or newer) installed on your PC. To review system requirements and download Windows Media Player, click here.

To transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to an Apple device, you must have iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) installed. To download iTunes, click here.

If you intend to transfer MP3 titles to an iPod Shuffle, you should be able to do so via iTunes.

If you intend to transfer MP3 titles to an Apple device other than the iPod Shuffle, you should be able to do so via the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard. However, the setting 'Manually manage music' must be enabled in iTunes before you can transfer a title to your iPod. Adjust this setting as follows…

  1. Connect your device to your computer.
  2. If it does not launch automatically, open iTunes (version 7.6.2.9 or newer).
  3. In iTunes, locate your device in the left vertical navigation panel (under heading 'DEVICES'), and click your device.
    The 'Summary' screen is displayed.
  4. If it is not already checked, place a checkmark next to option 'Manually manage music'.
  5. Click the 'Apply' button.
    The iTunes 'Summary' screen refreshes, and your changes are saved.
  6. If desired, close iTunes.

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How can I get a copy of Windows® Media Player®?

Microsoft Windows Media Player is a free download. To review system requirements and download Windows Media Player, click here. Note that Windows Media Player 9 Series (or newer) is required in order to use OverDrive Media Console.

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How much does Windows Media Player cost?

Windows Media Player is a free download. To download Windows Media Player, click here.

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How can I get a copy of iTunes?

iTunes is a free download. To download iTunes, click here. Note that iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) is required in order to transfer MP3 Audiobooks to an Apple device.

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How much does iTunes cost?

iTunes is a free download. To download iTunes, click here.

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I came across a reference to 'Windows Media Player Security Upgrade'. What is this, and will I have to do it?

The Windows Media Security Upgrade is a process that must be performed before Microsoft Windows Media Player will allow WMA Digital Audiobooks, or any DRM-protected files, to be played. A security measure, the security update identifies the copy of Windows Media Player with the computer on which the Player is being used. Publishers often require this sort of security in order to discourage the unlawful redistribution of digital content.

The first time that you open OverDrive Media Console after installation, OverDrive Media Console checks to see if you need to complete the security upgrade. If a security upgrade is needed, a message is displayed notifying you that in order to play DRM-protected content, you must first upgrade the security of your Windows Media Player. Follow the instructions provided in the message to complete the security update.

Alternatively, you may complete the security upgrade at any time. Complete the security upgrade as follows…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you that your Windows Media Player requires a security upgrade to play DRM-protected content.
  3. Click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens and, the 'Security Upgrade Required' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'OK' in the 'Security Upgrade Required' dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'License Acquisition' dialog box is displayed, indicating that you have installed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
  5. Click the 'Play' button in the 'License Acquisition' dialog box to complete the upgrade.
    Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade.
  6. Click the 'Cancel' button to close the 'License Acquisition' dialog box. If desired, you can also close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

If at a later time you need to upgrade the security of your Windows Media Player, do so as follows…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you of your current Windows Media Player security version and offering the option to re-upgrade.
  3. To re-upgrade, click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens, and the 'License Acquisition' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'Play' in the 'License Acquisition' dialog box dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'License Acquisition' dialog box closes, and Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade. If desired, you can close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

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Once I have purchased a Digital Audiobook title, how do I download it?

  1. After the book has been purchased, click on the 'Download' button next to the cover image of the audiobook.
    OverDrive Media Console opens, and the 'Get Media' dialog box prompts for the folder to which the files should be downloaded.
  2. In the OverDrive Media Console 'Get Media' dialog box, specify a download location (or leave the default file path) then click the 'OK' button.
    The 'Download' dialog box is displayed.
  3. In the 'Download' dialog box, choose which Part(s) you would like to download by placing a checkmark next to the desired Part(s), then click the 'OK' button.
    The 'Download' dialog box closes, and the file download begins. Download progress is displayed for each Part in the OverDrive Media Console Status Bar (when enabled, the status bar is displayed across the bottom of the OverDrive Media Console window).
    When the download is complete, click the 'Play' button to play the title.

The license for the audio title can be downloaded three times from this website. Please note that this restriction only applies to downloading the license from this website. After you have downloaded the license, you may download the audio files as needed using OverDrive Media Console.

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How do I download a Digital Audiobook title using Firefox?

If you are using Firefox, after the title has been purchased, click on the 'Download' button next to the cover image of the title. If prompted, choose option 'Open with', and browse to 'OverDrive Media Console'. To adjust your settings so that you do not have to repeat this step going forward, check the box next to 'Do this automatically for files like this from now on'.

If you've already downloaded a file with Firefox and are unable to open it, complete the following steps:

If you have Firefox 2.x…

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Go to Tools > Options.
    The 'Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. Select 'Content'.
    The 'Content' options are displayed.
  4. Under the 'File Types' heading, click the 'Manage…' button.
    The 'Download Actions' dialog box is displayed.
  5. Select the 'ODM' file extension and click the 'Change Action' button.
    The 'Change Action' dialog box is displayed.
  6. Select option 'Open them with this application'.
    The 'Select Helper Application' dialog box is displayed.
  7. In the 'Select Helper Application' dialog box, navigate to the location at which OverDrive Media Console is installed (by default the application is installed to C:\Program Files\OverDrive Media Console) and select 'MediaConsole.exe'.
  8. Click 'Open' in the 'Select Helper Application' dialog box.
    The 'Select Helper Application' dialog box closes.
  9. Click 'OK' in the 'Change Action' dialog box.
  10. Click 'Close' in the 'Download Actions' dialog box.
  11. Click 'OK' to exit the 'Options' dialog box.
  12. Be sure you are connected to the Internet, and browse to the file you were unable to open. Double-click the file.
    OverDrive Media Console launches, allowing you to use your audiobook file(s).

If you have Firefox 1.x…

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Go to Tools > Options.
    The 'Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. In the 'Options' dialog box, click the 'Downloads' button.
  4. Under the heading 'File Types', select either 'ODM OverDrive.Media' or 'application/x-od-media' (the option you will see will vary depending on the version of Firefox you are using) and click the 'Change action' button.
    The 'Change Action' dialog box is displayed.
  5. Select 'Open them in this application'.
    The 'Choose Application' dialog box is displayed.
  6. Browse to 'OverDrive Media Console' and double-click 'OverDrive Media Console'.
    The 'Choose Application' dialog box is closed, displaying the 'Change Action' dialog box again.
  7. Click the 'OK' button to save your change.
    The 'Change Action' dialog box is closed, displaying the 'Options' dialog box again.
  8. Click 'OK' to exit the 'Options' dialog box.
  9. Be sure you are connected to the Internet, then browse to the file you were unable to open. Double-click the file.
    OverDrive Media Console launches, allowing you to use your audiobook file.

Please note that the initial download is a small file; you download the actual audiobook file(s) from within the OverDrive Media Console application.

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How do I listen to my Digital Audiobook?

When a Part of the book has finished downloading, click the 'Play' button in OverDrive Media Console. The 'OverDrive Media Explorer™' window is displayed and the file begins playing.

If desired, you can navigate directly to a desired section of the audiobook. For ease of download and use, many OverDrive media titles are divided into Parts, and Parts are then divided into logical sections (such as chapters for audiobooks). The beginning points of these logical sections are MediaMarkers. Click on the desired Part to display associated MediaMarkers. Click the desired MediaMarker to start play at that point in the file.

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I am only interested in one of the chapters of the audiobook I downloaded. Can I just play that chapter?

You can navigate directly to a desired point in a title using 'Parts' and 'MediaMarkers'. For ease of download and use, many OverDrive media titles are divided into Parts, and Parts are then divided into logical sections (such as chapters for audiobooks). The beginning points of these logical sections are MediaMarkers.

To display Parts and MediaMarkers in OverDrive Media Console, click the 'Play' button. The 'OverDrive Media Explorer' window is displayed and the file begins playing. Parts are displayed on the left-hand side of the window, and the MediaMarkers for the selected Part are displayed on the right-hand side of the window.

Click on the desired Part to display associated MediaMarkers. Click the desired MediaMarker to start play at that point in the file.

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How do I transfer a WMA Digital Audiobook to my portable device?

Using OverDrive Media Console v3.0…

Note that if you have OverDrive Media Console v2.1 or earlier installed, it is recommended that you upgrade to OverDrive Media Console v3.0. To review system requirements and download OverDrive Media Console 3.0, click here.

  1. Connect your portable player to your computer.
  2. In OverDrive Media Console, highlight the title you wish to transfer and click the 'Transfer' button.
    The OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard is displayed.
  3. Verify that the correct title is displayed on the first screen of the Transfer Wizard and click 'Next'.
    The Transfer Wizard will search for a connected portable device.
    If your device is detected the 'Confirm' screen is displayed.
    If your device is not detected, the Transfer Wizard will display a message stating that 'no portable players could be found.' For more information about why your portable player could not be found, click here.
  4. In the 'Confirm' dialog box, select the Part(s) you want to transfer by checking the box(es) next to the Part name(s).
  5. Click 'Next' to begin transferring the file(s) to your device.
    When the file transfer is complete, the Transfer Wizard displays a 'success' message.
  6. Click 'Finish' to exit the Transfer Wizard.
    You may now disconnect your portable device and enjoy your title.

Note that if you are using a Pocket PC, OverDrive Media files must be transferred to a memory card. Be sure you have a memory card with sufficient memory space installed, and be sure to specify the memory card in the course of the transfer process.

To review a list of supported portable devices, click here. To use WMA Digital Audiobooks on a device, the device must support the playback of DRM-protected WMA content, and also support the bit rate of 32kbps or be able to transcode 32kbps files to a supported bit rate.

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How do I transfer an MP3 Digital Audiobook to my portable device?

OverDrive Media Console can transfer MP3 content to most devices using the built-in Transfer Wizard with a few exceptions…

  • Microsoft Zune: If you intend to transfer MP3 titles to a Microsoft Zune, you should be able to do so using Zune Marketplace. MP3 titles cannot be transferred to the Zune using the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard.
  • iPod Shuffle: If you intend to transfer MP3 titles to an iPod Shuffle, you should be able to do so using iTunes. MP3 titles cannot be transferred to the Shuffle using the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard.

Note that if you want to use the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard to transfer content to an Apple device other than the iPod Shuffle, the setting 'Manually manage music' must be enabled in iTunes before you can complete the transfer. Adjust this setting as follows…

  1. Connect your device to your computer.
  2. If it does not launch automatically, open iTunes (version 7.6.2.9 or newer).
  3. In iTunes, locate your device in the left vertical navigation panel (under heading 'DEVICES'), and click your device.
    The 'Summary' screen is displayed.
  4. If it is not already checked, place a checkmark next to option 'Manually manage music'.
  5. Click the 'Apply' button.
    The iTunes 'Summary' screen refreshes, and your changes are saved.
  6. If desired, close iTunes.

To transfer content to a supported device using OverDrive Media Console v3.0 Transfer Wizard…

  1. Connect your portable player to your computer.
  2. In OverDrive Media Console, highlight the title you wish to transfer and click the 'Transfer' button.
    The OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard is displayed.
  3. Verify that the correct title is displayed on the first screen of the Transfer Wizard and click 'Next'.
    The Transfer Wizard searches for a connected portable device.
    If your device is detected the 'Confirm' screen is displayed.
    If your device is not detected, the Transfer Wizard will display a message stating that 'no portable players could be found.' For more information about why your portable player could not be found, click here.
  4. In the 'Confirm' dialog box, select the Part(s) you want to transfer by checking the box(es) next to the Part name(s).
  5. Click 'Next' to begin transferring the file(s) to your device.
    When the file transfer is complete, the Transfer Wizard displays a 'success' message.
  6. Click 'Finish' to exit the Transfer Wizard.
    You may now disconnect your portable device and enjoy your title.

Note that iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) is required in order to transfer MP3 Audiobooks to an Apple Device.

To review a list of supported portable devices, click here.

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What is a 'bit rate'?

Bit rate is a measure of the quantity of audio data transferred from your device's memory to its audio decoder. Different devices support different ranges of bit rates. Some devices are able to convert unsupported bit rates to supported bit rates, a process called 'transcoding'.

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Why can some titles be burned to CD but others cannot?

The publisher of each title decides whether or not to allow the title to be burned to CD; this decision is at the publisher's discretion. Many publishers enable this functionality while others choose not to permit this use of their content.

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How can I tell if a title can be burned to CD?

There are two places you can check to see if a title may be burned to CD. You can check at this website or, if you have already purchased the title, you can look in OverDrive Media Console.

At this website, check whether a title may be burned to CD as follows…

Search for the desired title, and click the title to bring up the page displaying details about the title. At this page, click the link 'Digital Rights Information'. The information listed here will clearly indicate whether or not the publisher has enabled the burn to CD functionality.

In OverDrive Media Console, check whether a title that you have already checked out may be burned to CD as follows…

  1. In OverDrive Media Console, highlight the desired title and click the 'Properties' button.
    The 'Properties' dialog box is displayed.
  2. Click the 'License' tab. (Note that if a 'License' tab is not displayed, the title is not digitally protected and can be burned to CD.)
    'License details' for the selected title are displayed, indicating whether or not the title may be burned to CD.
  3. Click the 'Cancel' button to close the 'Properties' dialog box.

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How do I burn an audiobook to CD?

If you have not already done so, verify that the permissions on the title allow you to burn the file to CD (publishers may opt to disable this functionality)…

  1. In OverDrive Media Console, highlight the desired title and click the 'Properties' button.
    The 'Properties' dialog box is displayed.
  2. Click the 'License' tab. (Note that if a 'License' tab is not displayed, the title is not digitally protected and can be burned to CD.)
    'License details' for the selected title are displayed, indicating whether or not the title may be burned to CD.
  3. Click the 'Cancel' button to close the 'Properties' dialog box.

Burn a title to CD using OverDrive Media Console v3.0 as follows…

Note that if you have an older version of OverDrive Media Console installed, it is recommended that you upgrade to OverDrive Media Console v3.0. To review system requirements and download OverDrive Media Console 3.0, click here.

  1. Place a recordable CD into your recordable CD drive.
  2. In OverDrive Media Console, highlight the title you wish to burn and click the 'Burn' button.
    The OverDrive Media Console Burn Wizard is displayed.
  3. Verify that the correct title is displayed on the first screen of the Burn Wizard and click 'Next'.
    The 'Confirm' screen is displayed.
  4. In the 'Confirm' dialog box, select the Part(s) you want to burn by checking the box(es) next to the Part name(s).
  5. Click 'Next' to begin burning the file(s) to CD.
    The Progress screen is displayed. You can click Cancel at any point while the OverDrive Media Console 'prepares' the file. But it is not possible to cancel the process once the file starts burning to CD.
  6. If you have selected more than one Part to burn to CD, the Burn Wizard will prompt you to enter a new CD as each Part finishes burning. When the file transfer is complete, the Burn Wizard displays a 'success' message.
  7. Click 'Finish' to exit the Burn Wizard.

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wma digital audiobook basics

What is a WMA Digital Audiobook title?

A WMA Digital Audiobook title is a digitally-protected audiobook that has been optimized for download. WMA Digital Audiobook titles are built using the Microsoft® Windows Media Audio format, which greatly enhances the sound quality for desktop listening, play of CD copies (when allowed by the publisher), and portable device use.

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To which devices can I transfer WMA Digital Audiobook titles?

To review a list of supported portable devices, click here. Note that in order to use WMA Digital Audiobook titles on a device, the device must play DRM-protected Windows Media content, and either support the bit rate of 32kbps or be able to transcode 32kbps files to a supported bit rate.

Note that Apple devices do not support DRM-protected WMA Digital Audiobooks.

You may want to check device documentation to determine if a device supports DRM-protected Windows Media content at 32kbps.

If you are using a Pocket PC, OverDrive Media files must be transferred to a memory card. Be sure you have a memory card with sufficient memory space installed, and be sure to specify the memory card in the course of the transfer process.

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Why can't I transfer WMA Digital Audiobook titles directly to my iPod, or use these files on my Mac?

WMA Digital Audiobook titles, provided by OverDrive, Inc., use DRM protection technology from Microsoft Corporation. Unfortunately the iPod and Mac do not currently support DRM-protected Windows Media Audio (WMA) files.

OverDrive, along with hundreds of online digital media providers, is hopeful that Apple and Microsoft can reach an agreement that would enable support for Microsoft-based DRM-protected materials on the iPod and Mac.

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Can I use WMA Digital Audiobook titles with my Palm device?

WMA Digital Audiobook titles may be transferred to certain Palm devices with the help of a third party application called Pocket Tunes. For a list of supported Palm devices, see the Pocket Tunes website at http://www.pocket-tunes.com/?page=requirements. For instructions on installing and using Pocket Tunes with WMA Digital Audiobook titles, click here.

Please note that Pocket Tunes is not a free application. For more information on purchasing Pocket Tunes, see the Pocket Tunes website at http://www.pocket-tunes.com.

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How much free disk space do I need to have in order to transfer WMA Digital Audiobook titles to my portable device?

WMA Digital Audiobook titles for OverDrive Media Console are delivered in Parts, with each Part generally not exceeding 18MB in size. As long as your portable device has at least 18MB of storage space you should be able to transfer a single Part or more to it at a time.

Note that the Transfer Wizard will alert you if you do not have enough storage space on your device to accommodate the files that you are attempting to transfer. The Transfer Wizard allows you to delete WMA files that are on your portable player in order to make room for the files you wish to transfer.

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I came across a reference to 'licenses'. What are licenses and why do I need them?

Licenses are files that allow DRM-protected content, such as WMA Digital Audiobooks, to be played with Windows Media Player. Before Windows Media Player will open a DRM-protected file, it verifies that the user has the appropriate license. If the user does not have a license for the content, the file will not open. Licenses are automatically managed by OverDrive Media Console when WMA Digital Audiobooks are downloaded.

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mp3 digital audiobook basics

What is an MP3 Digital Audiobook title?

An MP3 Digital Audiobook title is an audiobook that has been optimized for download. MP3 Digital Audiobook titles are compatible with many different devices including most cell phones, PDAs, and MP3 players.

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To which devices can I transfer MP3 Digital Audiobook titles?

Most MP3 compatible devices should play MP3 Digital Audiobooks. To review a list of known supported devices, click here.

If you intend to transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to a portable device, please note the following…

  • iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) is required in order to transfer MP3 Audiobooks to an Apple Device.
  • OverDrive Media Console can transfer MP3 content to most devices using the built-in Transfer Wizard with a few exceptions…
    • Microsoft Zune: If you intend to transfer MP3 titles to a Microsoft Zune, you should be able to do so using Zune Marketplace. MP3 titles cannot be transferred to the Zune using the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard.
    • iPod Shuffle: If you intend to transfer MP3 titles to an iPod Shuffle, you should be able to do so using iTunes. MP3 titles cannot be transferred to the Shuffle using the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard.
  • If you want to use the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard to transfer content to an Apple device other than the iPod Shuffle, the setting 'Manually manage music' must be enabled in iTunes before you can complete the transfer. Adjust this setting as follows…
    1. Connect your device to your computer.
    2. If it does not launch automatically, open iTunes (version 7.6.2.9 or newer).
    3. In iTunes, locate your device in the left vertical navigation panel (under heading 'DEVICES'), and click your device.
      The 'Summary' screen is displayed.
    4. If it is not already checked, place a checkmark next to option 'Manually manage music'.
    5. Click the 'Apply' button.
      The iTunes 'Summary' screen refreshes, and your changes are saved.
    6. If desired, close iTunes.

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How much free disk space do I need to have in order to transfer MP3 Digital Audiobook titles to my portable device?

MP3 Digital Audiobooks for OverDrive Media Console are delivered in Parts, with each Part generally not exceeding 36MB in size. As long as your portable device has at least 36MB of storage space you should be able to transfer a single Part or more to it at a time.

The Transfer Wizard alerts you if you do not have enough storage space on your device to accommodate the files that you are attempting to transfer. Depending on your portable player, the Transfer Wizard may allow you to delete files on your portable player in order to make room for the files you wish to transfer. This functionality is not available for Apple devices.

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Can I transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to my Apple device?

MP3 Digital Audiobooks can be transferred to Apple devices. If you intend to transfer MP3 Audiobooks to an Apple device, please note the following…

  • iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) is required in order to transfer MP3 Audiobooks to an Apple device.
  • OverDrive Media Console can transfer MP3 content to most Apple devices using the built-in Transfer Wizard. The exception is the iPod Shuffle. If you intend to transfer MP3 titles to an iPod Shuffle, you should be able to do so using iTunes. MP3 titles cannot be transferred to the Shuffle using the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard.
  • If you want to use the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard to transfer content to an Apple device, the setting 'Manually manage music' must be enabled in iTunes before you can complete the transfer. Adjust this setting as follows…
    1. Connect your device to your computer.
    2. If it does not launch automatically, open iTunes (version 7.6.2.9 or newer).
    3. In iTunes, locate your device in the left vertical navigation panel (under heading 'DEVICES'), and click your device.
      The 'Summary' screen is displayed.
    4. If it is not already checked, place a checkmark next to option 'Manually manage music'.
    5. Click the 'Apply' button.
      The iTunes 'Summary' screen refreshes, and your changes are saved.
    6. If desired, close iTunes.

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How can I get a copy of iTunes?

iTunes is a free download. To download iTunes, click here. Note that iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) is required in order to transfer MP3 Audiobooks to an Apple device.

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How much does iTunes cost?

iTunes is a free download. To download iTunes, click here. Note that iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) is required in order to transfer MP3 Audiobooks to an Apple device.

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How can I tell if I have the correct version of iTunes?

To transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to an Apple device, you need to have Apple iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) installed.

To determine whether you have the required version of iTunes installed...

  1. In iTunes, select Help > About iTunes.
    The 'About iTunes' window is displayed.
  2. The first line of scrolling text in the 'About iTunes' window lists the version of iTunes that is installed on your computer. If version 7.6.2.9 (or newer) is installed, you have a required version of iTunes installed. If an earlier version of iTunes is installed, follow the instructions below to upgrade to iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer).

To upgrade to iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer)…

  1. In iTunes, select Help > Check for Updates.
    iTunes checks for available updates.
  2. If you do not have iTunes 7.6.2.9 (or newer), iTunes displays a message alerting you that a new version of the iTunes is available and asks if you would like to download it now.
  3. Click 'Yes' to download the latest version of iTunes.
    The Apple Software Update application opens and lists any Apple applications for which updates are available.
  4. Ensure that 'iTunes + QuickTime' and 'Apple Software Update for Windows' are checked and click the 'Install' button.
    License Agreement windows are displayed for each application you are updating. Click 'Next' for each of these if you accept the terms of the license agreements.
    Apple Software Update downloads and installs the selected updates.
  5. When the upgrade is complete, you are prompted to restart your computer. Click 'Yes' to restart or 'No' to manually restart later.
    After restart, iTunes 7.6.2.9 (or newer) installation is complete.

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Can I use MP3 Digital Audiobook titles with my Palm device?

MP3 Digital Audiobook titles may be played on Palm devices. You may transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to your Palm using the same method that you currently use to sync files from your computer to your device.

On Windows Vista, MP3 Digital Audiobooks are stored in Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks by default. On computers with Windows 98SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME, and Windows XP, MP3 Digital Audiobooks are stored in My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks by default.

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How do I add MP3 Digital Audiobooks to my iTunes Library?

By default, MP3 Digital Audiobooks downloaded at this site are saved in My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks > [Title of Book] (unless you override this default at download). If you wish to use these MP3 Digital Audiobooks with iTunes, you can browse to and drag these files into the iTunes Library.

Alternatively, you can complete the following steps…

  1. In iTunes, go to File > Add Folder to Library.
    The 'Browse For Folder' pop-up screen is displayed.
  2. Browse to My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks > [Title of Book] to add the files for a specific title to iTunes, or browse to My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks, to add files for all the titles you have acquired to iTunes.
    3. Click 'OK'.
    iTunes imports the MP3 Digital Audiobook files to your library. Once this process is complete, you can listen to the title(s) with iTunes and if desired, transfer to your Apple device.

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How do I add MP3 Digital Audiobooks to my Zune Marketplace Library?

By default, MP3 Digital Audiobooks downloaded at this site are saved in My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks > [Title of Book] (unless you override this default at download). If you wish to use these MP3 Digital Audiobooks with Zune Marketplace Library and/or synch your MP3 Digital Audiobooks with a Zune device, complete the following steps…

  1. At the Zune Marketplace Library screen, select Settings > software.
    The ‘Monitored folders’ screen is displayed.
  2. Click the 'ADD FOLDER' button to the right of the ‘Music’ category.
    The 'Browse For Folder' pop-up screen is displayed.
  3. Browse to My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks > [Title of Book] to add the files for a specific title to Zune Marketplace, or browse to My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks, to add files for all the titles you have acquired to Zune Marketplace.
  4. Click 'OK'.
    Zune Marketplace imports the MP3 Audiobook files to your library. Once this process is complete, you can listen to the title(s) using Zune Marketplace and if desired, transfer to your Zune device.

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I would prefer to listen to/transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks using software other than OverDrive Media Console. How can I do this?

By default, MP3 Digital Audiobooks downloaded at this site are saved in My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks > [Title of Book] (unless you override this default at download). If you wish to use our MP3 Digital Audiobooks with software other than OverDrive Media Console, consult that software's documentation for instructions on importing MP3 files.

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digital audiobook software

Download OverDrive Media Console - Click to download OverDrive Media Console™
If you have OverDrive Media Console v.2.0 (or newer) installed, you do not need to uninstall it before upgrading to v.3.0. All items in your 'Media Library' will be maintained during this process.

OverDrive Media Console Install File
Download Size: 3.83 MB
Date Published: 5/27/2008
Version: 3.0

System Requirements for OverDrive Media Console for Windows® PCs/Tablet PCs/Laptops

  • Operating system:
    • Windows Vista (Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, or Ultimate Edition)
      Windows XP (Home, Professional, Tablet PC, or Media Center Edition)
      Windows Millennium Edition (ME)
      Windows 2000 (Professional or Server)
      Windows 98 Second Edition (SE)
  • Processor:
    • A 233 megahertz (MHz) processor, such as an Intel Pentium II or Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) processor
  • RAM:
    • 64 megabytes (MB)
  • Free hard disk space:
    • 100 MB
  • Sound card:
    • 16-bit sound card
  • Video adapter and monitor:
    • Super VGA (800 x 600) or higher resolution
  • Browser:
    • Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 (or newer)
  • Windows Media Player 9 Series (or newer)

Note: If you intend to transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to an Apple Device you will need:

  • Software:
    • iTunes version 7.6.2.9 (or newer)
    • Quicktime version 7.4.5 (or newer)
  • Operating system:
    • Windows Vista (Home, Basic, Home Premium, Business, or Ultimate Edition)
      Microsoft Windows XP (Home, Professional, Tablet PC, or Media Center Edition)
  • Processor:
    • A 500 megahertz (MHz) processor
  • RAM:
    • 256 MB

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Download and Installation Instructions for OverDrive Media Console for Windows PCs/Tablet PCs/Laptops

  1. To download OverDrive Media Console, click here.
    A 'File Download' box is displayed.
  2. Select option 'Save' or 'Save this program to disk'. Browse to (and make note of) a location to save the file, and click the 'OK' button to download the OverDrive Media Console install file (ODMediaConsoleSetup.exe) to your machine.
    Please be patient, as this may take a few minutes to download and save.
  3. If you are using IE 5.0 or higher, a dialog box may be displayed when the download is complete. Click the 'Open' button to begin the installation. Otherwise, locate the '.exe' file (ODMediaConsoleSetup.exe), and double-click it to begin installation. Note that upgrading or uninstalling OverDrive Media Console will not affect any content that you have already previously downloaded; all items in your 'Media Library' will be maintained through either process.
    The 'OverDrive Media Console Setup Wizard' is displayed.
  4. Click the 'Next >' button to begin the installation process.
    The 'Software License Agreement' screen is displayed.
  5. Review the 'Software License Agreement', and select the 'I Agree' option (if you agree). Then, click the 'Next >' button.
    The 'Select Installation Folder' screen is displayed.
  6. At the 'Select Installation Folder' screen, either browse to the location to which you would like to save the program, or leave the default location. Also, indicate whether you'd like the program to be accessible to 'Everyone' or 'Just me', then click the 'Next >' button.
    The 'Confirm Installation' screen is displayed.
  7. Click the 'Next >' button to start installation.
    When the installation is complete, the 'Installation Complete' window will be displayed.
  8. Click the 'Close' button to exit the wizard.
  9. Once the installation is complete, you may delete the install file (ODMediaConsoleSetup.exe).

Note that upgrading or uninstalling OverDrive Media Console will not affect any content that you have already previously downloaded; all items in your 'Media Library' will be maintained through either process.

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Download Windows Media Player®

To download Windows Media Player, click here, or visit www.microsoft.com.

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Instructions for performing the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade

(only required for WMA Digital Audiobooks)

The Windows Media Security Upgrade is a process that must be performed before Microsoft Windows Media Player will allow any DRM-protected files, such as WMA Digital Audiobooks to be played. A security measure, the security update identifies the copy of Windows Media Player with the computer on which the Player is being used. Publishers often require this sort of security in order to discourage the unlawful redistribution of digital content.

If you have not previously performed the security upgrade, the first time that you open OverDrive Media Console, OverDrive Media Console checks to see if you need to complete the security upgrade. If a security upgrade is needed, a message is displayed notifying you that in order to play DRM-protected content, you must first upgrade the security of your Windows Media Player. Follow the instructions provided in the message to complete the security update.

Alternatively, you may complete the security upgrade at any time. Complete the security upgrade as follows…

If you have Windows Media Player 11…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you that your Windows Media Player requires a security upgrade to play DRM-protected content.
  3. Click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens and the 'Windows Media Player' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'Upgrade' to download and install the required security component.
    Windows Media Player indicates that it is 'Connecting to server…'. Once connected, the security component is downloaded and installed. Windows Media Player indicates that the security component was upgraded successfully.
  5. Click the 'Close' button in the 'Windows Media Player' dialog box.
    The 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box is displayed.
  6. Click the 'Play' button in the 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box to complete the upgrade.
    Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade.
  7. Click the 'Cancel' button to close the 'License Acquisition' dialog box. If desired, you can also close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

If you have Windows Media Player 9 or 10…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you that your Windows Media Player requires a security upgrade to play DRM-protected content.
  3. Click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens and, the 'Security Upgrade Required' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'OK' in the 'Security Upgrade Required' dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'License Acquisition' dialog box is displayed, indicating that you have installed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
  5. Click the 'Play' button in the 'License Acquisition' dialog box to complete the upgrade.
    Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade.
  6. Click the 'Cancel' button to close the 'License Acquisition' dialog box. If desired, you can also close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

If at a later time you need to upgrade the security of your Windows Media Player, do so as follows…

If you have Windows Media Player 11…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you of your current Windows Media Player security version and offering the option to re-upgrade.
  3. To re-upgrade, click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens, and the 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'Play' in the 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box closes, and Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade. If desired, you can close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

If you have Windows Media Player 9 or 10…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you of your current Windows Media Player security version and offering the option to re-upgrade.
  3. To re-upgrade, click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens, and the 'License Acquisition' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'Play' in the 'License Acquisition' dialog box dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'License Acquisition' dialog box closes, and Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade. If desired, you can close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

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Download iTunes®
(only required if transferring MP3 Digital Audiobooks to Apple devices)

To transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to an Apple device, you must have iTunes 7.6.2.9 (or newer) installed.

To download iTunes, click here, or visit www.apple.com/itunes/download.

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digital audiobook troubleshooting

What should I do if my Digital Audiobook does not completely download?

Whenever you need to download a book, or a Part of a book, you can do so using the 'Download' option of OverDrive Media Console as follows:

  1. Open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Locate the desired title in your 'Media Library', and single-click it.
  3. Click the 'Download' button.
    The 'Download' dialog box is displayed, and lists all of the Parts of the selected title.
  4. If you are not already online, connect to the Internet.
  5. Locate the Part which you want to download, and place a checkmark in the checkbox to the left of the desired Part.
  6. Click the 'OK' button.
    The selected Part will begin downloading, and the download status will be displayed in the lower-right hand corner of OverDrive Media Console.

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Instead of the audiobook I expected, I downloaded a file with the extension 'ODM'. Where is my WMA Digital Audiobook?

The download of an ODM file is part of the OverDrive Media file download process. However, the ODM file should automatically be processed, and prompt the OverDrive Media Console to open.

If you have not yet downloaded and installed OverDrive Media Console, click here for download and installation instructions.

If you have installed OverDrive Media Console, you may need to adjust your file associations. File associations tell a computer which program should be used to open a file. To determine if you need to adjust file associations, double-click the ODM file. This should launch OverDrive Media Console and allow you to use your media title. If this does not launch OverDrive Media Console follow the instructions below to manually set the file association for the ODM file type.

Manually set the file association for the ODM file type as follows:

If you have Windows Vista…

  1. Go to Start > Control Panel > Default Programs.
  2. Click 'Associate a file type or protocol with a program'.
    The computer lists the file types used on your system. It can take a few moments for the list to be available.
  3. Select '.odm' and click 'Change Program'.
  4. If the OverDrive Media Console is not listed, select Browse and scroll to the OverDrive Media Console folder.
  5. Select 'MediaConsole.exe' and click Open.
    The OverDrive Media Console should appear as a Recommended Program.
  6. Click OK.
    Windows will reassign the file association.
  7. Click 'Close' to close the Default Programs' dialog.

If you have Windows XP, Windows ME, Windows 2000, or Windows 98SE…

  1. Open Windows Explorer.
  2. Go to Tools > Folder Options > File Types.
    The 'Folder Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. In the 'Registered file types' box, find the entry for 'ODM'. Single-click the 'ODM' entry.
    The 'ODM' entry is selected.
  4. In the 'Details for "ODM" extension' box, click the 'Change' button.
    The 'Open With' dialog box is displayed.
  5. From the list of programs displayed in the 'Open With' dialog box, select 'OverDrive Media Console'.
  6. Click 'OK' to save your change and close the 'Open With' dialog box.
  7. Click 'OK' to close the 'Folder Options' dialog box.
  8. Double-click the ODM file you downloaded to launch the OverDrive Media Console and access your media title.

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I downloaded an audiobook using Firefox but am unable to open it. What should I do?

You may need to specify what Firefox should do with ODM files. The ODM file is a preliminary download; once it is downloaded, you can then download the actual audiobook file(s) from within the OverDrive Media Console application.

Access Digital Audiobooks using Firefox as follows...

If you have Firefox 2.x…

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Go to Tools > Options.
    The 'Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. Select 'Content'.
    The 'Content' options are displayed.
  4. Under the 'File Types' heading, click the 'Manage…' button.
    The 'Download Actions' dialog box is displayed.
  5. Select the 'ODM' file extension and click the 'Change Action' button.
    The 'Change Action' dialog box is displayed.
  6. Select option 'Open them with this application'.
    The 'Select Helper Application' dialog box is displayed.
  7. In the 'Select Helper Application' dialog box, navigate to the location at which OverDrive Media Console is installed (by default the application is installed to C:\Program Files\OverDrive Media Console) and select 'MediaConsole.exe'.
  8. Click 'Open' in the 'Select Helper Application' dialog box.
    The 'Select Helper Application' dialog box closes.
  9. Click 'OK' in the 'Change Action' dialog box.
  10. Click 'Close' in the 'Download Actions' dialog box.
  11. Click 'OK' to exit the 'Options' dialog box.
  12. Be sure you are connected to the Internet, and browse to the file you were unable to open. Double-click the file.
    OverDrive Media Console launches, allowing you to use your audiobook file(s).

If you have Firefox 1.x…

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Go to Tools > Options.
    The 'Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. In the 'Options' dialog box, click the 'Downloads' button.
  4. Under the heading 'File Types', select either 'ODM OverDrive.Media' or 'application/x-od-media' (the option you will see will vary depending on the version of Firefox you are using) and click the 'Change action' button.
    The 'Change Action' dialog box is displayed.
  5. Select 'Open them in this application'.
    The 'Choose Application' dialog box is displayed.
  6. Browse to 'OverDrive Media Console' and double-click 'OverDrive Media Console'.
    The 'Choose Application' dialog box is closed, displaying the 'Change Action' dialog box again.
  7. Click the 'OK' button to save your change.
    The 'Change Action' dialog box is closed, displaying the 'Options' dialog box again.
  8. Click 'OK' to exit the 'Options' dialog box.
  9. Be sure you are connected to the Internet, then browse to the file you were unable to open. Double-click the file. OverDrive Media Console launches, allowing you to use your audiobook file.

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When I try to download an audiobook, I receive the message 'Unable to open the specified OverDrive Media file', followed by a file path that references a temporary directory on my computer. What should I do?

This error typically indicates that your browser's temporary Internet files are too full to process the download. This can be corrected by clearing the temporary Internet files from your web browser as follows:

If you are using Internet Explorer 7.0…

  1. Launch Internet Explorer.
  2. Go to Tools > Internet Options.
    The 'Internet Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. On the 'General' tab, click the 'Delete...' button under the heading 'Browsing history'.
    The 'Delete Browsing History' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click the 'Delete files...' button.
  5. Click the 'Yes' button to confirm the deletion of your temporary Internet files.
  6. Click the 'Close' button to close the 'Delete Browsing History' dialog box.
  7. Click the 'OK' button to close the 'Internet Options' dialog box.
  8. Attempt to download again.

If you are using Internet Explorer 6.0…

  1. Launch Internet Explorer.
  2. Go to Tools > Internet Options.
    The 'Internet Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. Click the 'Delete Files' button.
    The 'Delete File' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Check the 'Delete all offline content' box.
  5. Click the 'OK' button to confirm the deletion of your temporary Internet files.
  6. Click the 'OK' button again to close the 'Internet Options' dialog box.
  7. Attempt to download again.

If you are using Firefox 2.x…

  1. Launch Firefox.
  2. Go to Tools > Options.
    The 'Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. Select the 'Privacy' option.
    The 'Privacy' options are displayed.
  4. Under the 'Private Data' heading, click the 'Clear Now…' button.
    The 'Clear Private Data' dialog box is displayed.
  5. Check option 'Cache' and ensure that the other checkboxes are not checked.
  6. Click 'Clear Private Data Now' to delete your temporary Internet files.
  7. Click 'OK' to close the 'Options' dialog box.
  8. Attempt to download again.

If you are using Firefox 1.x…

  1. Launch Firefox.
  2. Go to Tools > Options.
    The 'Options' dialog box is displayed.
  3. Click the 'Privacy' button.
    From the areas listed, locate 'Cache'. Click the 'Clear' button to the right of 'Cache' to delete your temporary Internet files.
  4. Click the 'OK' button again to close the 'Options' dialog box.
  5. Attempt to download again.

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My CD player won't play the CD to which I burned my audio file. What is the problem?

Many CD players, especially older models, will not play CDRs. Fewer still will play CD-RWs. If you have successfully burned an audio CD but it won't play on your CD player, check your CD player's documentation to see if it supports playback of CDRs and CD-RWs.

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wma digital audiobook troubleshooting

I was prompted to perform a 'Windows Media Player Security Upgrade'. What is this, and how do I complete this process?

The Windows Media Security Upgrade is a process that must be performed before Microsoft Windows Media Player will allow any DRM-protected files, such as WMA Digital Audiobooks, to be played. A security measure, the security update identifies the copy of Windows Media Player with the computer on which the Player is being used. Publishers often require this sort of security in order to discourage the unlawful redistribution of digital content.

If you have not previously performed the security upgrade, the first time that you open OverDrive Media Console, OverDrive Media Console checks to see if you need to complete the security upgrade. If a security upgrade is needed, a message is displayed notifying you that in order to play DRM-protected content, you must first upgrade the security of your Windows Media Player. Follow the instructions provided in the message to complete the security update.

Alternatively, you may complete the security upgrade at any time. Complete the security upgrade as follows…

If you have Windows Media Player 11…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you that your Windows Media Player requires a security upgrade to play DRM-protected content.
  3. Click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens and the 'Windows Media Player' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'Upgrade' to download and install the required security component.
    Windows Media Player indicates that it is 'Connecting to server…'. Once connected, the security component is downloaded and installed. Windows Media Player indicates that the security component was upgraded successfully.
  5. Click the 'Close' button in the 'Windows Media Player' dialog box.
    The 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box is displayed.
  6. Click the 'Play' button in the 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box to complete the upgrade.
    Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade.
  7. Click the 'Cancel' button to close the 'License Acquisition' dialog box. If desired, you can also close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

If you have Windows Media Player 9 or 10…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you that your Windows Media Player requires a security upgrade to play DRM-protected content.
  3. Click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens and, the 'Security Upgrade Required' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'OK' in the 'Security Upgrade Required' dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'License Acquisition' dialog box is displayed, indicating that you have installed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
  5. Click the 'Play' button in the 'License Acquisition' dialog box to complete the upgrade.
    Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade.
  6. Click the 'Cancel' button to close the 'License Acquisition' dialog box. If desired, you can also close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

If at a later time you need to upgrade the security of your Windows Media Player, do so as follows…

If you have Windows Media Player 11…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you of your current Windows Media Player security version and offering the option to re-upgrade.
  3. To re-upgrade, click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens, and the 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'Play' in the 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'Media Usage Rights Acquisition' dialog box closes, and Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade. If desired, you can close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

If you have Windows Media Player 9 or 10…

  1. While connected to the Internet, open OverDrive Media Console.
  2. Go to Tools > Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.
    A dialog box is displayed, notifying you of your current Windows Media Player security version and offering the option to re-upgrade.
  3. To re-upgrade, click 'OK' in the dialog box.
    Windows Media Player opens, and the 'License Acquisition' dialog box is displayed.
  4. Click 'Play' in the 'License Acquisition' dialog box dialog box to perform the upgrade.
    The 'License Acquisition' dialog box closes, and Windows Media Player plays a brief file, confirming that you have completed the upgrade. If desired, you can close Windows Media Player at this time.
    You have successfully completed the Windows Media Player Security Upgrade.

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I encountered a problem while downloading a Part of my WMA Digital Audiobook, and now, OverDrive Media Console won't let me download that Part again. What should I do?

Follow these steps to download the Part:

If you have Windows Vista…

  1. Close OverDrive Media Console.
  2. In Windows Explorer, go to Documents > My Media > WMA Audiobooks, and open the folder for the title that you are trying to download.
  3. Delete the file that corresponds to the incomplete Part.
  4. Open OverDrive Media Console.
  5. Select your title and click on 'Download'. You should now have the option to re-download the incomplete Part.

Please note that downloads of Parts cannot be resumed from the point at which they were interrupted.

If you have Windows 98SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME, or Windows XP…

  1. Close OverDrive Media Console.
  2. In Windows Explorer, go to My Documents > My Media > WMA Audiobooks, and open the folder for the book that you are trying to download.
  3. Delete the file that corresponds to the incomplete Part.
  4. Open OverDrive Media Console.
  5. Select your book and click on 'Download'. You should now have the option to re-download the incomplete Part.

Please note that downloads of Parts cannot be resumed from the point at which they were interrupted.

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I got an error message while trying to download my WMA Digital Audiobook. It says a connection to the Internet could not be established, but I am connected to the Internet. Why am I getting this error?

This error typically indicates that Windows Media Player does not have a connection to the Internet. It is possible to receive this error message if you are in fact connected to the Internet.

The error can be corrected by taking the following steps:

  1. Configure firewalls or Internet security applications to allow Windows Media Player to have Internet access.
  2. Disable any web accelerators that you may be running.
  3. Add proxy server login information to the OverDrive Media Console. Open OverDrive Media Console and select Tools > Options. Check the box next to 'My Internet connection requires authentication', complete the 'User name' and 'Password' fields, then click 'OK'.

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When I attempt to transfer a WMA Digital Audiobook to my portable device the Transfer Wizard reports that 'No portable players could be found' even though my player is connected. Why won't the Transfer Wizard recognize my device?

If you connected your device and immediately attempted to transfer files, it is possible that Windows had not yet recognized the device. Wait a few moments after connecting the device and attempt the transfer again.

If the error persists, your device may not support the transfer and playback of DRM-protected Windows Media Audio files. To review a list of supported portable devices, click here. Note that in order to use WMA Digital Audiobook titles on a device, the device must support playback of DRM-protected WMA content and support the bit rate of 32kbps or be able to transcode 32kbps files to a supported bit rate.

You may want to check device documentation to determine if your device supports DRM-protected Windows Media content at 32kbps.

Note that if you are using a Pocket PC, OverDrive Media files must be transferred to a memory card. Be sure you have a memory card with sufficient memory space installed, and be sure to specify the memory card in the course of the transfer process.

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I tried to transfer a WMA Digital Audiobook to my Windows Mobile Device and got an error saying 'Unable to locate folder of Windows Mobile device because folder is not found.' Why can't I transfer an audiobook to my Windows Mobile Device?

This error occurs if you have specified that you want to save a title to a sub-folder on an encrypted SD card. Currently, OverDrive Media Console only supports transfer of WMA Digital Audiobooks to the root folder of encrypted SD cards. Transfer to sub-folders is supported if your SD card is not encrypted.

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My iRiver device does not seem to support WMA Digital Audiobooks although the device documentation says that it supports DRM-protected Windows Media Audio (WMA) files. Are there any known issues with iRiver devices?

Some iRiver devices do not natively support DRM-protected WMA files and we can confirm that the iRiver T10 and iRiver T30 are such devices. However, with a firmware upgrade released by iRiver, these devices will support our WMA Digital Audiobooks. Please visit the iRiver website for more information on completing this firmware upgrade.

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I burned all of my WMA Digital Audiobook files to a single CD but the files won't play on my CD player. Why won't the files play?

WMA Digital Audiobooks must be burned as audio CDs, and each Part requires a CD. In Windows Media Player, be sure to specify 'Audio CD' when burning your title to CD. For instructions for burning a title to CD, click here.

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mp3 digital audiobook troubleshooting

I encountered a problem while downloading a Part of my MP3 Digital Audiobook, and now, OverDrive Media Console won't let me download that Part again. What should I do?

Follow these steps to download the Part:

If you have Windows Vista…

  1. Close OverDrive Media Console.
  2. In Windows Explorer, go to Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks, and open the folder for the title that you are trying to download.
  3. Delete the file that corresponds to the incomplete Part.
  4. Open OverDrive Media Console.
  5. Select your title and click on 'Download'. You should now have the option to re-download the incomplete Part.

Please note that downloads of Parts cannot be resumed from the point at which they were interrupted.

If you have Windows 98SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME, or Windows XP…

  1. Close OverDrive Media Console.
  2. In Windows Explorer, go to My Documents > My Media > MP3 Audiobooks, and open the folder for the book that you are trying to download.
  3. Delete the file that corresponds to the incomplete Part.
  4. Open OverDrive Media Console.
  5. Select your book and click on 'Download'. You should now have the option to re-download the incomplete Part.

Please note that downloads of Parts cannot be resumed from the point at which they were interrupted.

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I am unable to transfer MP3 Digital Audiobook titles to my iPod Shuffle using OverDrive Media Console. How can I transfer MP3 Audiobooks to my iPod Shuffle?

MP3 Digital Audiobook content should play on the iPod Shuffle, but you must use iTunes to transfer MP3 Digital Audiobook files to the device rather than using the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard. For instructions on adding MP3 Digital Audiobooks to the iTunes Library, click here.

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I am unable to transfer MP3 Digital Audiobook titles to my Zune using OverDrive Media Console. How can I transfer MP3 Digital Audiobooks to my Zune?

MP3 Digital Audiobook content should play on the Zune, but you must use Zune Marketplace to transfer MP3 Digital Audiobook files to the device rather than using the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard.

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I tried to transfer an MP3 Digital Audiobook to my Apple device, but I got an error reading 'An error occurred while attempting to transfer "Title"'. What should I do?

The steps taken depend on the type of Apple device. Do one of the following…

  • If you are trying to transfer to an iPod Shuffle, OverDrive Media Console cannot transfer MP3 content to the iPod Shuffle. Instead, use iTunes to transfer MP3 titles to the iPod.
  • If you want to use the OverDrive Media Console Transfer Wizard to transfer content to an Apple device other than the Shuffle, the setting 'Manually manage music' must be enabled in iTunes before you can complete the transfer. Adjust this setting as follows…
    1. Connect your device to your computer.